Wiring Check

50Twuncle

I would like to get my house wiring checked out - it is at least 25 years old - we have a couple of sockets loose on the walls
If I had wanted this done 20 years ago - I would have contacted my local electricity board - but since privatisation, I don't think that this is possible
Hence I need some advise as how to choose an INDEPENDANT contractor to carry out a full check - I am concerned that whoever I pick is going to see this as a "cash cow" and inform me that the whole lot needs ripping out and replacing....
I am a private owner occupier.

Wywth

21Twinkle wrote: »

I would like to get my house wiring checked out - it is at least 25 years old - we have a couple of sockets loose on the walls
If I had wanted this done 20 years ago - I would have contacted my local electricity board - but since privatisation, I don't think that this is possible
Hence I need some advise as how to choose an INDEPENDANT contractor to carry out a full check - I am concerned that whoever I pick is going to see this as a "cash cow" and inform me that the whole lot needs ripping out and replacing....
I am a private owner occupier.

Ask around for recommendations of a local electrician.

Or look in Yellow Pages and take pot luck.

Get a couple of independent quotes at least if cost is high.

macman

No, your home wiring would not have been checked by the electricity board prior to privatisation-it's always been the responsibility of the householder.
You simply have to employ and independent electrican, which is best done by asking around. Surely a friend or neighbour has had work done in the last few years and could recommend somebody.
Even if they do recommend a rewire, you are under no obligation to have it done by them. More likely that you'll just need an upgraded CU and maybe some extra ring main sockets?
Loose sockets are dangerous, so get it sorted.

50Twuncle

macman wrote: »

No, your home wiring would not have been checked by the electricity board prior to privatisation-it's always been the responsibility of the householder.
You simply have to employ and independent electrican, which is best done by asking around. Surely a friend or neighbour has had work done in the last few years and could recommend somebody.
Even if they do recommend a rewire, you are under no obligation to have it done by them. More likely that you'll just need an upgraded CU and maybe some extra ring main sockets?
Loose sockets are dangerous, so get it sorted.

Thanks - the CU appears reasonably modern (it has MCB's rather than fuses) - but we had the kitchen "done" a few years ago and they pointed out the age of the wiring (it was PVC no rubber - but still concerning) - the sockets are a worry ....